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Israel Marks Anniversary of Hamas Attack with Continued Military Action
Israel commemorated the anniversary of the Hamas attack on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,200 people and the taking of 250 hostages. The attack prompted a massive response from the Israeli military in the form of air strikes on Beirut and an incursion in southern Lebanon targeting the Iran-allied Hezbollah militant group.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog led a moment of silence at the time the attack began at Kibbutz Reim, where the Nova music festival tragedy occurred. Meanwhile, in Washington, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to achieving cease-fire agreements in both Gaza and Lebanon.
While the ceremony in Israel was underway, four projectiles were fired from Gaza towards Israeli communities, but the event proceeded without disruption. Families of the hostages still in Hamas captivity gathered in a silent protest outside the residence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, demanding the government’s action to secure their release.
Since the attack last year, Israel has carried out significant military actions in Gaza, killing nearly 42,000 Palestinians according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ongoing conflict has seen the Israeli military bomb over 40,000 targets in Gaza, neutralize tunnel shafts, and destroy rocket launcher sites. Israel is now also engaged in fighting against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah recently fired rockets into northern Israeli cities, causing damage and injuries. Despite being designated a terrorist organization, Hezbollah’s political unit, which holds seats in the Lebanese parliament, has not faced sanctions from the European Union.
As the military actions continue, civilians in the region are enduring disruptions to their daily lives. Irena Stein from Beersheba, Israel, reflected on the emotional toll of living under the threat of rockets. Similarly, in a Lebanese village, residents expressed fear and despair over Israeli strikes targeting civilians.
Israel’s Defense Minister issued warnings to Iran following recent tensions, indicating the potential for further escalation. The U.S., as Israel’s ally, expressed concerns over civilian infrastructure being targeted in the military operations.
With tensions high in the region, the anniversary of the Hamas attack serves as a reminder of the ongoing conflict and the need for diplomatic solutions to achieve peace.
